Raffah House, c. 1840
Sleeps 6 | Bedrooms 3 | Bathrooms 1.5
Raffah House has a rich and storied history. The land on which the stone cottage stands was granted in 1828 to Mr. James Weeding, and soon after, he built a two-storey rubble stone house there. During the 1800s, it changed hands to be first used as a hotel, then an Emporium - the largest store in Oatlands, selling everything from groceries, to dresses and linen. In 1910, a fire destroyed part of the building, and it was rebuilt as a single-storey residence, using the original sandstone bricks.
During the 1930s and ‘40s, a Miss. Ellen Gane bought the building to use as a maternity hospital, naming it ‘Raffah’ - from which Raffah House gets its name. But the loveliest part of this story is that the cottage has come full circle. 189 years later, Nick Weeding, a direct descendant of the very first owner, James Weeding, purchased the cottage along with his wife, Sophie. They’ve gone on to undertake a sympathetic restoration of the cottage, retaining and highlighting its period detail, and proudly opened her doors for guests to enjoy.
Raffah House welcomes both couples and families, including young children - with cot, high chair and toys available if needed. There are three comfortable bedrooms, two with queen beds, and one with two singles, all with luxurious pillows, doonas, toppers, and buttery soft French flax linen for a dreamy night’s sleep. Each bedroom has been simply furnished to let the stunning heritage sandstone fireplaces take centre stage.
Oatlands is centrally located, making it the ideal town to base yourself and take day trips from. Raffah House is suited to longer stays for this purpose, and is a true home away from home: a fully-equipped, modern kitchen has everything you need to whip up a storm, with pantry staples provided, including muesli, olive oil and coffee pods; and the laundry has a washer and dryer. The bathroom has a large double vanity, heated floors, generous deep double bath, and walk in shower, with complimentary Ashley & Co amenities.
The cottage’s interior exudes understated elegance in a neutral palette of warm wood furniture, soft lighting, creamy linens and artwork in earthy tones. Settle into the lounge in front of the fireplace with a complimentary G&T on arrival, while you decide upon your first Tasmanian adventure. At the end of the day, indulge in a long hot bath and perhaps unwind with some Netflix…or if you must work, high speed WiFi is also included.
Outside, you’ll find a large European-inspired backyard, and outdoor entertaining area with BBQ - the perfect spot for a glass of local Tassie wine. Guests are also welcome to help themselves to fresh ingredients from the seasonal vegetable garden. History lovers will marvel at the heritage sandstone walls that surround the private outdoor space.
Raffah House is an important piece of both Oatlands and Tasmania’s history. James Weeding would certainly be proud of his ancestors, who have taken his cottage to new heights and enabled its story to continue. They warmly invite you to make Raffah House a part of your story.
Special Features
Georgian Buildings
Families Welcome
Indoor Fireplace
Full Kitchen & Pantry Items
Things To Do
Oatlands is a historic township, centrally situated in the heart of the Southern Midlands, and is one of Tasmania’s oldest settlements. Spend at least a day exploring the village, with over 150 beautiful heritage sandstone buildings (many of them convict-built), intact Georgian streetscapes; and quaint cafes, shops, antique and arts & crafts stores. Visit Callington Mill, a working windmill built in 1837 and the only working example of its type in the Southern Hemisphere.
Nearby, discover the heritage-listed, picturesque towns of Bothwell and Ross - visiting Ross and its exquisite sandstone bridge with detailed carvings is a must. And in just over an hour’s drive, you’ll find yourself in either Hobart or Launceston, both easy day trips from Raffah House.